Are you ready to sink your teeth into a tangy and sweet treat? Look no further than these 18 zesty key lime cake recipes that will transport you to the tropical islands where this citrus fruit originated. From classic pound cakes to creamy cheesecakes and moist sponge cakes, each of these recipes combines the brightness of key lime juice with other flavors to create a truly irresistible dessert.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of key lime cakes and explore the many ways you can incorporate this tart and tangy fruit into your baking. From simple bundt cakes to elaborate layer cakes, there’s something for every skill level and taste bud here. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on our journey to discover the ultimate key lime cake recipes!
Classic Key Lime Pound Cake
This moist and flavorful pound cake is infused with the bright citrus flavor of key lime, perfect for a sunny day or as a delightful dessert any time of year. With its tender crumb and tangy twist, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in key lime zest and juice.
4. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Key Lime Coconut Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the brightness of key lime with the richness of coconut, perfect for a springtime dessert or brunch. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this tropical treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together key lime juice, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Key Lime Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and sour with this refreshing Key Lime Cheesecake, nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Make the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Combine sour cream, Key lime juice, and confectioners’ sugar; stir into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Pour batter into the prepared crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Key Lime Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
This refreshing bundt cake combines the brightness of key lime with the tanginess of cream cheese, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Cream cheese glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup bundt pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in key lime juice and zest.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Glaze:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
Beat ingredients together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Key Lime Poke Cake
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing Key Lime Poke Cake! A moist and creamy cake infused with the tangy flavor of key lime, topped with a fluffy whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions. Pour into prepared pan.
3. Poke holes all over the top of the warm cake with a skewer or fork.
4. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and softened butter until smooth.
5. Add key lime juice and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
6. Pour the mixture evenly over the poked cake.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
8. Top with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Key Lime Angel Food Cake
Lighten up your dessert repertoire with this zesty Key Lime Angel Food Cake, perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you crave a bright and citrusy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour and sugar into a medium bowl.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Add softened butter, key lime juice, and salt; beat until well combined.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan (10 inches). Smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Invert onto a wire rack to cool.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Key Lime Cupcakes with Whipped Frosting
Brighten up your day with these moist and flavorful Key Lime Cupcakes topped with a light and airy whipped frosting. Perfect for a springtime celebration or a spontaneous dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in Key lime juice and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Whipped Frosting:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons powdered sugar
Beat all ingredients together until stiff peaks form. Top cupcakes with whipped frosting and serve.
Key Lime Layer Cake with White Chocolate Ganache
Elevate your dessert game with this tangy and sweet Key Lime Layer Cake topped with a rich White Chocolate Ganache. Perfect for springtime celebrations or as a unique treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
For the ganache:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with Key lime juice.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling and topping with White Chocolate Ganache (melt chocolate chips in heavy cream over low heat).
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Key Lime Yogurt Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the zesty goodness of key lime with the creaminess of yogurt, perfect for a springtime dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, eggs, key lime juice, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Key Lime Chiffon Cake with Meringue Topping
Experience the bright, citrusy flavor of key lime pie reimagined as a light and airy cake, topped with a toasted meringue crown.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) key lime juice
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
– 1 tsp baking powder
For the meringue topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients, then add oil, lime juice, and egg whites. Beat until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. For the meringue topping, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Spread meringue over cooled cake and toast with a kitchen torch or under broiler for 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Key Lime Icebox Cake
This Key Lime Icebox Cake is a light and airy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. Made with key lime juice, whipped cream, and graham crackers, it’s an easy-to-make treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Add melted butter and stir until mixture is evenly moistened.
4. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
5. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
6. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice; beat until smooth.
7. Pour mixture over crust and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
8. Top with whipped cream before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This cake is made in the refrigerator, not the oven.
Key Lime Drizzle Cake
This moist and tangy cake is infused with the brightness of key lime juice and topped with a sweet and sticky glaze, perfect for springtime celebrations or everyday indulgence. With just the right balance of citrus and sweetness, this Key Lime Drizzle Cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by key lime juice.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with glaze (recipe not included).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Key Lime Marble Cake
This moist and flavorful cake gets its name from the vibrant yellow color and burst of citrus flavor from the key lime. With a swirl of creamy white frosting and a sprinkle of sea salt, this marble cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– White frosting (homemade or store-bought)
– Sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with key lime juice and vanilla extract, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting and garnishing with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Key Lime Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and moist Key Lime Olive Oil Cake, infused with the tangy flavor of key lime juice and the subtle richness of olive oil. Perfect for a brunch or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, olive oil, eggs, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Key Lime Mousse Cake
This Key Lime Mousse Cake combines the brightness of citrus with the lightness of mousse, creating a refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press into the prepared pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold in key lime juice and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mousse over crust and smooth top. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until set.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Key Lime Sponge Cake with Lemon Glaze
This refreshing dessert combines the brightness of key lime and lemon flavors, perfect for springtime celebrations or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Add softened butter, key lime zest, juice, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before glazing with lemon mixture (powdered sugar and lemon juice).
6. Drizzle over the cooled cake and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Key Lime Ricotta Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the tanginess of key lime juice with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, perfect for a springtime treat or a brunch dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, ricotta cheese, key lime juice, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Key Lime Upside-Down Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this Key Lime Upside-Down Cake, featuring sweet and tangy key lime filling, crunchy brown sugar and butter topping, and a moist yellow cake base.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup key lime juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, salt, and key lime juice; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan; top with brown sugar mixture and melted butter.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven; let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a plate.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a citrusy delight with these 18 zesty key lime cake recipes! From classic pound cakes to creative cheesecakes and bundts, each dessert is infused with the bright, tangy flavor of key lime. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or looking to mix things up with unique combinations, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Try your hand at making a Key Lime Coconut Cake, Key Lime Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust, or one of the many other mouthwatering options.
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